A few of the big names and moments in Broward County girls sports history

Patriot pride

Chad Pilster

Few schools in Broward County have had as much success in girls sports as American Heritage. The Patriots have become regulars at the state soccer tournament, state softball tournament, state swim meets, state golf and state track meets. Here, members of the 2009 state championship softball team admire their trophy.

Few schools in Broward County have had as much success in girls sports as American Heritage. The Patriots have become regulars at the state soccer tournament, state softball tournament, state swim meets, state golf and state track meets. Here, members of the 2009 state championship softball team admire their trophy. (Chad Pilster)

When Foluke Akinradewo arrived at St. Thomas Aquinas, she was hoping to play basketball for the Raiders. She did that, but she also let Raiders volleyball coach Lisa Zielinski talk her into trying volleyball. Akinradewo's natural athleticism made her new sport a perfect fit. Akinradewo went on to earn Sun Sentinel Player of the Year honors for volleyball three consecutive seasons and helped lead St. Thomas to a state title in 2004. She went on to become an All-American at Stanford and is a member of Team USA.

When Foluke Akinradewo arrived at St. Thomas Aquinas, she was hoping to play basketball for the Raiders. She did that, but she also let Raiders volleyball coach Lisa Zielinski talk her into trying volleyball. Akinradewo's natural athleticism made her new sport a perfect fit. Akinradewo went on to earn Sun Sentinel Player of the Year honors for volleyball three consecutive seasons and helped lead St. Thomas to a state title in 2004. She went on to become an All-American at Stanford and is a member of Team USA. (GARY CURRERI)